How to Use Turn Signals in a Manual Transmission Car?
3 Answers
When starting the vehicle, turn on the left turn signal. When parallel parking, turn on the right turn signal. At intersections and forks, turn on the left turn signal when turning left, and the right turn signal when turning right. When entering a roundabout, no turn signal is needed; when exiting, turn on the right turn signal. When overtaking, first turn on the left turn signal, and after maintaining a necessary safe distance from the overtaken vehicle, turn on the right turn signal to return to the original lane.
Timing and technique matter here. The stalk on the left side of the steering wheel controls the turn signals - push it up for right turn signal, pull it down for left. The key is to signal before changing lanes or turning. With a manual transmission already keeping you busy, don't wait until you're actually turning to remember. When I drive, I usually signal about three seconds in advance so trailing vehicles understand my intention. When you complete the turn and the wheels are nearly straightened, the signal automatically turns off with a click - very convenient. If the signal turns off mid-way through a wide turn, quickly flick it back on with your finger. The windshield wiper stalk is on the right side - beginners shouldn't mix them up. At intersections, signal in advance so surrounding cyclists and pedestrians can understand your intended movement. Safety always comes first.
When driving a manual transmission car, I'm used to operating the turn signal without taking my left hand off the steering wheel. I activate the lever at least 30 meters before turning or changing lanes, quickly glancing at the rearview mirror as the light comes on. During left turns, I return the steering wheel slowly - that satisfying click sound means it's done right. For consecutive turns, if the signal cancels, I just flick it back on with my fingers instead of gripping the whole lever. Be extra careful in rain - don't mistakenly pull the right-side wiper lever thinking it's the turn signal. After every signal, I double-check that blinking arrow indicator on the dashboard. If the green arrow doesn't light up, it means the bulb's filament is burnt and needs immediate replacement.
